Best Breakthrough Act in Providence

Broadcaster

Former members of punchy alt-rock locals Killing Pablo reformed last year as Broadcaster, and in the process we discovered possibly the next Modest Mouse right here in our backyard. It's '90s indie-rock fun at its finest ("Energetic reverb-soaked guitar rock with lyrics usually about drugs or boredom or a combination of the two," their FB page declares), led by singer/guitarist Chris McTiernan (vocally channeling indie heroes Doug Martsch and Tim Kinsella), usually rocking a sport coat while flopping around onstage to instant classics "Old Creep" and "La Brea," two standouts from their recent debut EP Drunkard's Walk (75orLess Records). "Passerby," "Choke," and their GBV cover "Index of Bands" sound even better during their unhinged sets. If The Lonesome Crowded West, Icky Mettle, and Keep It Like a Secret remain on your daily '90s rock playlist, seek out Broadcaster immediately.